City center's annual Christmas market called off this year
In a recent announcement, Düsseldorf Tourism has made the difficult decision to cancel the much-anticipated Düsseldorf Christmas Market, originally scheduled to open on November 19, 2020. The growing risk of having to cancel or close down the market at the last minute or a few days later has made it impossible for anyone to plan seriously.
Ole Friedrich, Managing Director of Düsseldorf Tourism, stated that the goal was for visitors to feel at ease on the market. However, the increasing infection rates in Düsseldorf and the region have caused uncertainty among potential visitors and exhibitors. As a result, the current situation does not permit the market to proceed as planned this year.
Friedrich has been in constant communication with traders and showmen regarding the cancellation, and some have already decided not to participate. The city is currently exploring alternative ways to support those affected by the cancellation. Typical measures taken by German cities during 2020 include financial aid, extending or relaxing vendor licenses, creating virtual marketplaces or online platforms, and facilitating alternative, smaller-scale market formats compliant with health regulations. However, without specific details from the search results, I cannot confirm which of these measures Düsseldorf has adopted.
In October, Düsseldorf Tourism detailed a hygiene concept for the Christmas market to ensure visitor safety. Despite these efforts, the public's understanding is waning if events are planned for the pre-Christmas period. The Düsseldorf Christmas Market is an important source of income, especially this year, for many traders and showmen.
Friedrich hoped that the implemented measures would allow for a Christmas market that everyone could enjoy. However, he acknowledged that this year's circumstances do not permit it. The growing risk of cancellation makes it impossible for anyone to plan seriously, which is why Düsseldorf Tourism has taken the late, clear step of cancelling the market.
Despite this setback, Düsseldorf remains a vibrant city with many other attractions to offer. Visitors are encouraged to explore the city's rich history, art scene, and culinary delights during their visit. For more information on alternative activities and attractions in Düsseldorf, please visit official Düsseldorf tourist information website.
Science and health-and-wellness are integral components as Düsseldorf Tourism explores alternative ways to support traders and showmen affected by the cancelled Christmas Market. The city is considering a range of measures such as financial aid, extending or relaxing vendor licenses, creating virtual marketplaces or online platforms, and facilitating alternative, smaller-scale market formats compliant with health regulations, much like what other German cities have implemented in 2020.
